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RFU backed over Victoria Cross kit

The RFU has received the backing of the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association for its controversial new England Rugby shirt.

The RFU has received the backing of the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association for its controversial new England Rugby shirt.

The new kit features Victoria Cross motifs made up of small rubber grips to deaden the impact of the ball, however the RFU came under fire for not contacting the organisation before using the emblem.

Victoria Cross Trust chairman Gary Stapleton was one of those critics, claiming the move had “touched a raw nerve with a lot of people”.

However after discussions with the RFU, the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association has given its support to the jerseys, highlighting the strong links which exist between the game of rugby and the military.

“Although the Association was not previously aware of the RFU's decision to incorporate the motif, following discussions between the Association and the RFU (and taking account of the statement issued by the RFU) it is clear that the RFU did not intend to cause any offence,” Association chairman-elect Major Peter Norton GC said.

“Strong links have always existed between the game of rugby and the military.

“Given that we, as a nation, are now commemorating the centenary of the First World War, and the sacrifices made by so many during that period, the Association feels that the RFU's decision to incorporate a Victoria Cross-inspired motif within the design of the new England shirt is a subtle, and fitting, mark of respect for those who went above and beyond.

“We wish to thank the RFU for this, and for their continued support for the Armed Forces, past, present and future.”